1. Kevin Hart
Kevin Hart faced major backlash when old homophobic tweets resurfaced, leading him to step down from hosting the 2019 Oscars. Many thought this might permanently tarnish his public image and end his career in comedy. However, Hart’s honest interviews and willingness to apologize showed personal growth, which resonated with fans. Audiences were quick to forgive because his stand-up career had long been built on relatability and charisma.
He continued to headline tours and star in box-office hits, proving his professional resilience. Fans remembered the comedian who had made them laugh for decades, showing that past mistakes didn’t erase his talent. Hart’s comeback was a reminder that public figures could learn and evolve, and people could still separate art from mistakes. His story became a case study in how accountability and charm can outlast a controversy.
2. Will Smith
Will Smith’s career faced major turbulence after the infamous Oscars slap in 2022, which left the internet buzzing and talk shows overrun with commentary. Social media called for boycotts, and many questioned whether his career could recover from such a public incident. Yet, despite the backlash, Smith’s charm and decades-long legacy in both music and film proved resilient. People couldn’t completely turn their backs on the Fresh Prince who had given them laughter, inspiration, and memorable roles.
Even after the controversy, Smith started appearing at events again, showing a mix of humility and continued talent. His movies, both past and upcoming, maintained box office appeal, which reminded audiences why they loved him in the first place. Social media grudges slowly softened as fans acknowledged his public apology and efforts to make amends. Ultimately, Will Smith’s story became less about “cancel culture” and more about redemption and the power of a long-standing career.
3. Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres faced a serious PR crisis in 2020 after allegations of a toxic workplace surfaced on “The Ellen Show.” Viewers and former employees shared stories of mistreatment that made it seem like the beloved daytime host was unrecognizable. Despite this, audiences couldn’t entirely forget her decades of groundbreaking work, particularly her role in normalizing LGBTQ+ representation on TV. People still remembered Ellen as a pioneer of humor and kindness on a national stage.
Even as ratings dipped and critics scrutinized her every move, Ellen slowly rebuilt her public persona through interviews and smaller projects. Fans acknowledged that while the workplace issues were serious, her influence on comedy and LGBTQ+ visibility couldn’t be erased. Her career trajectory illustrates how complicated public perception can be—people can be disappointed yet still appreciative. Ellen became a reminder that legacies are multifaceted, not just defined by scandals.
4. Chris Brown
Chris Brown has faced multiple controversies over the years, most notably the 2009 assault on Rihanna, which made him a household name for all the wrong reasons. Many assumed this would permanently end his career, given the seriousness of the incident. Surprisingly, Brown managed to continue producing hit music and maintaining a loyal fan base. His talent in R&B and dance kept audiences returning, despite ongoing public scrutiny.
Brown’s story is a complicated one: people acknowledged his wrongdoing while still engaging with his artistry. He regularly releases music that charts successfully, proving commercial viability even amid backlash. Over time, many fans separated the artist from the mistakes, allowing him to stay relevant. His career remains a controversial example of how cancel culture sometimes collides with enduring fan loyalty.
5. Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson encountered online backlash when she was cast in roles that some argued were “whitewashing,” including the live-action Ghost in the Shell adaptation. Critics initially criticized her choices as insensitive to Asian representation. Yet, Johansson’s dedication to her craft, versatility, and decades-long filmography prevented her from being fully “canceled.” Fans remembered her performances in Marvel films and critically acclaimed roles that showcased her acting range.
The actress continued landing major roles and maintaining box office appeal, showing resilience despite social media outrage. Johansson’s story illustrates how nuance matters; people can critique choices while still admiring the artist. She became a symbol of how careers can weather controversy when talent and experience are undeniable. Her continued presence in Hollywood reminds us that public opinion isn’t always permanent.
6. Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber’s early career was marked by rebellious behavior, including arrests, public outbursts, and controversial remarks. Many assumed that his image as a teen heartthrob-turned-rebel would permanently damage his career. However, Bieber matured both personally and musically, producing hits that connected with fans and reflected growth. Audiences couldn’t forget the charm and talent that initially propelled him into stardom.
His turn toward personal and artistic growth helped rebuild public perception, making him more relatable and grounded. Even after scandals, Bieber maintained strong streaming numbers and sold-out tours, proving commercial resilience. People seemed willing to forgive his missteps as long as he demonstrated accountability. Bieber’s evolution underscores how celebrity narratives can change when the individual shows genuine growth.
7. Mel Gibson
Mel Gibson’s career took a major hit after anti-Semitic remarks and controversial behavior in the mid-2000s. The Hollywood elite distanced themselves, and many predicted the end of his career. Yet, Gibson’s talent as a director and actor kept him relevant, with films like Hacksaw Ridge earning critical acclaim and Academy recognition. Audiences couldn’t completely forget his earlier contributions to cinema, including iconic performances and directorial work.
He gradually rebuilt his career by working behind the camera and picking roles with more depth. Gibson’s comeback showed that even the most publicized controversies could be mitigated by skill and dedication. Fans and critics alike recognized that talent and professionalism sometimes outweigh scandal in the long term. His journey reflects the complicated balance between public scrutiny and artistic merit.
8. Kevin Spacey
Kevin Spacey faced career-threatening allegations of sexual misconduct starting in 2017, leading to his removal from multiple projects. Public condemnation was swift, and many assumed his Hollywood days were over. Yet, Spacey slowly resurfaced in smaller projects, theater, and international films. Some audiences remained intrigued by his undeniable acting talent, which refused to disappear entirely.
The complexity of Spacey’s situation highlights how accusations and artistic legacy can clash in public perception. While he hasn’t regained mainstream blockbuster status, dedicated fans and film enthusiasts continue to follow his work. Spacey’s story illustrates that while cancelation can drastically alter a career, it doesn’t always erase it. Public memory can be selective, especially when talent is involved.
9. Roseanne Barr
Roseanne Barr’s 2018 show reboot ended abruptly after she posted a racist tweet, sparking nationwide outrage. Television networks canceled her program immediately, and her reputation took a massive hit. Despite this, Barr remained a recognizable figure in pop culture, largely due to her earlier influence in comedy. People remembered her groundbreaking work on Roseanne, which had normalized working-class perspectives on television.
Though her mainstream opportunities shrank, Barr continued to have a presence through interviews, podcasts, and online platforms. Her persona remained polarizing but undeniable, reflecting her ability to maintain a public footprint. Audiences still recognized her impact on sitcoms and comedy. Barr’s career serves as an example of how notoriety and talent can keep someone from disappearing entirely.
10. Johnny Depp
Johnny Depp’s public image suffered immensely during his legal battles with Amber Heard, with some calling for his complete professional exile. Many assumed the actor’s career was permanently damaged due to the intense media scrutiny. However, Depp’s loyal fan base and strong international appeal helped him continue working on major film projects. People couldn’t forget his iconic roles in Pirates of the Caribbean and Edward Scissorhands, which defined a generation of moviegoers.
His career resilience was evident as he found new roles and maintained media attention in his favor. Depp’s ability to navigate the legal and social storm allowed audiences to separate controversy from craft. Box office numbers and fan support reinforced his enduring appeal. His story shows that even extreme public scandals don’t always erase decades of cultural impact.
11. Lindsay Lohan
Lindsay Lohan became tabloid fodder in the mid-2000s due to legal troubles and highly publicized personal struggles. Many assumed her career would vanish after repeated controversies and erratic behavior. Surprisingly, Lohan remained a cultural touchstone through reality TV, stage performances, and social media engagement. Audiences retained a nostalgic connection to her early films like Mean Girls and The Parent Trap.
Lohan’s attempts at professional reinvention have shown that public forgiveness can coexist with acknowledgment of past mistakes. She capitalized on nostalgia while demonstrating glimpses of personal growth. Fans found her story relatable, combining cautionary tales with resilience. Her journey highlights how celebrity culture often balances scandal with a sense of redemption.
12. Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus shocked the world when she transitioned from Disney star to boundary-pushing pop icon, with provocative performances and public antics. Many critics assumed her career would collapse under backlash from parents and conservative audiences. Yet, Cyrus’ talent, versatility, and unapologetic authenticity kept fans engaged. People couldn’t ignore her vocal ability, songwriting, and ability to reinvent herself repeatedly.
Her evolution from Hannah Montana to a multifaceted artist allowed her to survive controversies that might have ended other careers. Cyrus continues to release music and perform at major venues, demonstrating enduring appeal. Audiences admired her for taking risks and pushing cultural boundaries. Her story reminds us that reinvention, confidence, and authenticity often outlast temporary outrage.
This post 12 Celebrities America Tried to Cancel—But Couldn’t Forget was first published on American Charm.
